Antinori 2019/2020 Cervaro Della Sala IGT Umbria 750ml

[2019] The Castello della Sala 2019 Cervaro della Sala relies on a time-honored formula in which the Grechetto grape adds vertical intensity and freshness and Chardonnay gives structure and sophistication. Indeed, Grechetto (with late-harvest clones) never goes above 10% of the blend, and no malolactic fermentation is performed on that variety in order to maintain its tonic and fresh personality. This stunning edition shows orchard fruit, honey and flinty notes. The Chardonnay ferments in neutral barrique from September to February, and fine-grained wood is prioritized to render a reductive winemaking technique to further preserve aromatic intensity. This mid-weight and age-worthy white is redolent of Golden Delicious apple, acacia flower and tropical fruit.

Score: 95 points -- Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate, 2021

[2020] Made with Chardonnay and a smaller part Grechetto, the 2020 Cervaro della Sala offer generous and creamy fruit while also maintaining a sharp sense of crispness and verticality. The 2020 vintage saw more hot days than 2019, and the wine has plumped up generously as a result. However, it remains vigorously within the confines of a consistent winemaking regime that seeks freshness and energy. The wine is generous in texture but not exaggerated in its aromas of orchard fruit, quince and toasted almond.

Score: 95 points -- Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate, 2023